When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
J.P. Licks
Why J.P. Licks is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
J.P. Licks has been a cherished ice cream destination in Boston since 1981, known for its creative flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and community roots. Founded by Vincent Petryk in Jamaica Plain, J.P. Licks started as a single local shop and has grown to 17 locations across Massachusetts, becoming an institution beloved by locals and visitors alike. The brand’s commitment to quality and uniqueness is evident in its inventive flavors like Salted Caramel Cookies and Cream and Negative Chocolate Chip, which have won numerous awards. Beyond ice cream, J.P. Licks offers coffee and has indoor and outdoor seating options that make it an inviting spot to relax with friends, enjoy people watching, or grab a treat during a Boston stroll. Founder Vincent Petryk’s philosophy of spreading happiness through ice cream permeates every aspect of the business, from store design to daily operations. The loyal customer base appreciates not only the rich, flavorful treats but also the friendly staff and the sense of community the shops foster. J.P. Licks’ deep local roots and innovative spirit combine to make it an ideal meeting place for friends looking to indulge in delicious handmade ice cream and create joyful memories together.
Here's what people think of J.P. Licks
As of recent, J.P. Licks holds a 4.4-star rating based on 845 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise J.P. Licks for its delicious, high-quality ice cream and friendly service. Many reviewers highlight the wide selection of unique and inventive flavors, such as Salted Caramel Cookies and Cream and the Negative Chocolate Chip, which contribute to repeated visits and strong brand loyalty. Positive comments often mention the inviting atmosphere, attentive and cheerful staff, as well as the availability of both indoor and outdoor seating, which enhances the customer experience, especially during pleasant weather. The coffee offerings also receive compliments, adding to the variety of treats available. On the other hand, some negative reviews reference occasional crowds and busy times that can lead to longer waits and a less relaxed environment. A few customers note that certain locations get crowded, which might impact seating availability and overall comfort. Despite some criticisms, the overwhelming consensus is that J.P. Licks delivers excellent ice cream that justifies a visit, making it a beloved spot in Boston’s food scene. The founder’s vision of using ice cream to spread happiness resonates clearly through the warm reviews, solidifying J.P. Licks as a top choice for social gatherings and sweet indulgence.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Doug Delaney, Realtor
I have traveled long in search of the best strawberry shake. Some good, some pretty average. JPL really brings it with their regular (i consider it a light, refreshing energy drink) as well as their superstar thick ( a powerhouse of awesomeness). Outstanding! And i like those udder coffee cups lol
Raphael Sharta
I like this location because of its prompt service . I was in and out in few minutes and my ice cream was perfectly done. I will definitely be visiting again. Parking was a little difficult because its by the side of a busy road. Apart from that I recommend . The staff were friendly and were hospitable .
Aung Myo Htut
My friend brought me here to eat ice cream while I was in Boston. She told me it's a good ice cream place. It's not expensive under $8 for 3 scoops of ice cream. Those are good. It was a good experience for me to eat ice cream in the very cold January night.
Phương Hà
We ordered matcha latte and mocha. The matcha latte were so bad, they had no taste of matcha at all, and they were bland. The mocha is pretty good tho. I also ordered a waffle with the price of $6.5 for just one slice while it was shown on the board is 2 slices. Too expensive for just 1 small waffle
George Chalhoub
We had a poor experience here. Ordering was odd and chaotic! The ice cream was beyond sweet and unenjoyable.
Raphael Sharta
I like this location because of its prompt service . I was in and out in few minutes and my ice cream was perfectly done. I will definitely be visiting again. Parking was a little difficult because its by the side of a busy road. Apart from that I recommend . The staff were friendly and were hospitable .
Doug Delaney, Realtor
I have traveled long in search of the best strawberry shake. Some good, some pretty average. JPL really brings it with their regular (i consider it a light, refreshing energy drink) as well as their superstar thick ( a powerhouse of awesomeness). Outstanding! And i like those udder coffee cups lol
Aung Myo Htut
My friend brought me here to eat ice cream while I was in Boston. She told me it's a good ice cream place. It's not expensive under $8 for 3 scoops of ice cream. Those are good. It was a good experience for me to eat ice cream in the very cold January night.
Phương Hà
We ordered matcha latte and mocha. The matcha latte were so bad, they had no taste of matcha at all, and they were bland. The mocha is pretty good tho. I also ordered a waffle with the price of $6.5 for just one slice while it was shown on the board is 2 slices. Too expensive for just 1 small waffle
George Chalhoub
We had a poor experience here. Ordering was odd and chaotic! The ice cream was beyond sweet and unenjoyable.
How to reach J.P. Licks
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Why J.P. Licks may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at J.P. Licks with your friends? Imagine a warmly inviting local institution where the joy of ice cream goes beyond just a treat—it becomes a shared experience that brightens everyone’s day. Founded in 1981 in Jamaica Plain, Boston, by Vincent Petryk, J.P. Licks has grown from a small neighborhood ice cream shop into a beloved chain with 17 locations, each radiating a community spirit and a commitment to quality. What makes J.P. Licks especially great for group gatherings is its history of making people smile, a mission that their founder calls the “magical power of ice cream.” It is not just about eating deliciously intense-flavored ice cream or creamy frozen yogurt; it is about creating moments where friends and family can come together in a vibrant, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re catching up after a long week, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something delicious, J.P. Licks offers a welcoming space that amplifies happiness and connection. Their Kosher-certified products and locally inspired flavors show a deep respect for neighborly diversity, further enriching the experience for any group.
What activities can you enjoy at J.P. Licks that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the rich variety of handcrafted ice cream and frozen yogurt flavors offers an engaging tasting experience. With countless unique and intense flavors made in-house, including seasonal specials and ethnic-inspired options, everyone in your group can find a favorite or discover something new together. The production facility, roastery, and bakery at their Jamaica Plain “Mothership” location allow curious visitors to peek behind the scenes, turning an ordinary ice cream outing into an educational and sensory adventure. Furthermore, many J.P. Licks stores have spacious, inviting seating areas that encourage hanging out and chatting, enhancing social interaction. The welcoming ambiance combined with friendly, attentive staff makes it an ideal spot to relax after exploring the neighborhood or during a planned outing. Their attention to dietary needs, such as offering dairy-free and vegan options alongside traditional ones, means no one is left out. This thoughtful inclusiveness ensures every member of a group can fully enjoy their visit together.
Why is J.P. Licks's atmosphere ideal for friends or families seeking a relaxed, cheerful gathering? The charm of J.P. Licks lies in its blend of local tradition and energetic vibrancy. The founder’s vision of cultivating joy shows throughout every corner of the store, from the quirky décor and signature red suspenders worn by staff to the inviting, neighborhood feel. This ambiance fosters a casual yet lively environment where groups can linger without pressure, celebrate small moments, or simply reconnect. The stores are designed to be clean and comfortable with a community vibe that invites conversation and laughter. This environment is enhanced by J.P. Licks’ consistent commitment to quality customer service, ensuring each visit, whether for a quick scoop or a longer social break, meets high standards. The friendly staff contribute to a welcoming vibe that feels personal, making every group feel like they belong. For families with kids, the joyful environment and varied flavor offerings make it a hit across ages.
How does J.P. Licks accommodate diverse tastes and dietary preferences for group guests? A key appeal for meetups at J.P. Licks is how the menu caters to a wide range of palates and dietary needs without compromising flavor or experience. About a third of their sales come from frozen yogurt crafted in-house with intense flavors but less fat, appealing to those seeking lighter options. They also offer dairy-free and vegan ice creams, a must-have for modern social outings where dietary restrictions are common. Allergy-conscious options and Kosher certification further make J.P. Licks a considerate choice for groups wanting to enjoy treats worry-free. This focus on inclusivity demonstrates a respect for customers’ diverse lifestyles and tastes, allowing everyone in your gathering to indulge and share without limitation. The innovative flavors and rotating seasonal selections keep the menu exciting, perfect for groups returning multiple times or visiting different locations.
What special experiences and events make J.P. Licks a dynamic place to meet up? J.P. Licks is not just a place for ice cream; it’s a locus of community energy and creativity. The founder’s passion for “making 10,000 people a week a little bit happier” manifests in store events, flavor launches, and local collaborations that often bring groups together with fresh experiences. Some locations host special tastings or celebrations that can amplify group meetups into mini-events. Their roastery and bakery offerings add layers of sensory pleasure and options beyond typical ice cream fare, giving groups more reasons to savor each visit. Located centrally within neighborhoods, many J.P. Licks stores serve as informal hubs where friends can gather before or after neighborhood activities, connecting the ice cream experience to broader community life. The ongoing innovation in flavors and concepts invites regular visits, encouraging groups to make J.P. Licks a recurring favorite.
How does J.P. Licks’ history and founder story add meaning to your meetup experience? The personal touch Vincent Petryk brings to the company enriches every visit with authenticity and heart. Starting from his experience managing a Wendy’s in Philadelphia to founding this local Massachusetts institution, Petryk’s story is one of passion for people and craft. His vision of ice cream as a source of joy and community has shaped J.P. Licks into something far greater than a dessert destination. This legacy is felt in every scoop served and every smiling customer who leaves. When you bring friends or family to J.P. Licks, you’re not just choosing a place to eat ice cream—you’re participating in a shared tradition born from decades of care, creativity, and community commitment. This adds intangible warmth to your gathering, enhancing your connection to each other and the neighborhood.
Why is J.P. Licks a reliable choice for convenience and quality in group meetups? With 17 locations clustered within 20 miles of the Jamaica Plain home base, J.P. Licks offers easy access for a wide range of communities around Boston. This density enables groups to find a convenient spot nearby without sacrificing the high standards established by their flagship store. Close oversight and consistent training across locations ensure every scoop meets identical quality and customer service expectations. This reliability lets groups focus on enjoying their time together rather than worrying about inconsistent experiences. The broad geographical presence supports spontaneous meetups as well as planned celebrations, with ample options where friends or family can convene. This combination of convenience and quality is rare in local chains and makes J.P. Licks a top choice for group outings in the Boston area.
In sum, J.P. Licks delivers a holistic ice cream experience that is perfectly suited for gatherings of friends and families. From its flavorful, diverse menu to its warm, engaging environment, from its thoughtful inclusivity to the story-driven passion behind the brand, every element is designed to boost happiness and togetherness. If you’re planning your next meetup, consider the ice cream haven that has delighted Boston-area residents for over 40 years—with a standout rating of 4.4 from more than 800 reviews, J.P. Licks is not just a place to eat, but a destination to rally, laugh, and create delicious memories together.